So you've decided to get baby chicks !! I mean who can resist them as cute and fluffy as they are! Maybe you seen them at the store in the big metal tubs or ordered some from a magazine either way, here you are with baby chicks .... now what ???
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The first thing you are going to need is a brooder box! These can be made out of practically anything, you can use a tote box, guinea pig cage ( this is what we used the first year we started hatching eggs), a plastic tub, metal tub, anything as long as you can clean the bottom out and it keeps the chicks contained.
Here are a few that will work great especially if you're just starting: Just click the pictures to find out more information.
Once you get your brooder box you are going to need something to cover the bottom, you can use shavings, magazines, shredded paper, sand. something to absorb the pee and poop.
Here are a few different options:
Once you have your liner you are going to need a heat source. Baby chicks need to be able to get under a 95* heat lamp for the first week then you drop the temp 5 * each week following as they grow. For example
Week one : 95*
Week two: 90*
Week three: 85*
Week Four: 80*
After week four their feathers should have come in enough they can start to regulate heat on their own.
You do not want the whole box to be the same temperature. They need to have a warm area and a cool area so they can go in and our as needed to regulate their body temperature. Think about when they are with mama Hen, they snuggle under her when they get too cold but they also roam around to scratch and peck.
You can use the tradional heat lamp, or a brooder heater. I like to use a heat lamp as its easily adjustable and most come with a clamp so you can stick it on about anything you decide to use as your brooder box. You will also need a thermometer! I like to get the ones that read the humidity and the temperature because I inter use them with my incubators.
Here are a few options: Just click on the picture to find out more information
Once you have their environment set up it's time for feeders and waters! I have used many different ones over the years. Most all your chicken breeds will eat and then quit when they are full so using a feeder is a great option!
That way you're not having to go feed several times a day. Lots of times you can find kits that have both waters and feeders. The metal ones do last longer.
Chickens do like to roost they start roosting very young which means they poop and pee in their food trays and waters. It very important to make sure you are cleaning out the feeders and waters before you refill them.
How to take care of baby chicks Here are some options for feeders and waters !! Just Click on the pictures for more information.
Now that your brooder box is all set and ready to go. It's time to start adding chicks!. You should research different breeds depending on what your wanting, laying hens, meat chickens, if they need to be hardy birds, good in cold climates or hot climates. Lots to learn about chickens !
Your chicks will need to start on chick grower feed for the first 4 weeks and then they can move up to regular feed after that. If you have a local feed mill, call and see if they have any available. I always promote supporting local business. Organic is always best if you can get it. Make sure to keep plenty of water for them to drink!.
Here are a few starter feeds you can try :
Have fun learning and growing your skill set !!
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